A San Diego police officer who specialized in DUI patrols is charged with inappropriately touching female drivers he pulled over for traffic violations.
At least four women have made complaints of sexual misconduct against Officer Anthony Arevalos, an 18-year veteran, all involving drunk driving stops in or near the Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego.
• On Feb. 20, 2010, a woman alleged Arevalos sexually assaulted her during a DUI arrest.
• On Dec. 29, 2010, a 20-year-old woman said Officer Arevalos tried to solicit a sex act from her during a DUI stop.
• On Feb. 20, 2011, a 25-year-old woman said she was handcuffed when Arevalos repeatedly fondled her shoulders, while pulling up the straps on her dress.
• On March 8, 2011, a 32-year-old woman reported Arevalos sexually battered her during a DUI stop. She did not receive a citation.
Since Officer Arevalos is facing criminal charges and his credibility regarding past DUI arrests is at issue, there is a chance that open DUI cases involving the officer could be dismissed. At the least, prosecutors may be more willing to accept favorable pleas to avoid calling Arevalos to the witness stand.
In unusual circumstances such as these, it is important to have an experienced California DUI attorney.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence in California, contact our California DUI attorneys today.
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